Why do pellets appear on a jacket? What methods will help to remove them and how to prevent the appearance of pilling on outerwear? Useful care tips.
Effect of Materials and Pill Frequency
Piling or pilling on clothing is a common problem that many jacket owners face. Not only do they spoil the appearance, but they can also raise doubts about the quality of the fabric. In this article, we will look at how to prevent pilling and how to effectively get rid of it.
1. Influence of materials and frequency of pills
The material of the jacket plays a key role in the appearance of pilling. Some fabrics are more prone to pilling than others.
- Natural fibres: Such as wool, cotton and linen can form pills, especially if they are subject to friction. For example, a rough surface can easily felt due to constant contact with other fabrics.
- Synthetic Fibers: Fabrics such as polyester and acrylic can also pill, but to a lesser extent than natural fibers. Jackets that contain a mixture of both natural and synthetic fibers often pill.
- Fleece and corduroy: These fabrics, although warm, are also prone to pilling due to their texture.
- Frequency of occurrence: The frequency of pilling depends not only on the material, but also on the conditions of use. For example, jackets that are frequently subject to friction (such as when worn with a backpack or under a heavy coat) may form pellets more quickly.
Which jackets are prone to pilling?
Some jackets are more prone to pilling than others. Fleece jackets are one of them. Despite their popularity and coziness, fleece often pills due to its soft texture. Regular use and washing can make this problem worse. Jackets made from shaggy coat fabrics like wool, whether synthetic or natural, also pill quite quickly.
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Methods for removing pilling from a jacket
Let’s list the most popular methods for removing pellets.
With a razor
Remove all the pilling with a razor! The procedure is quite simple: take an old razor and gently run it over the fabric from the bottom up, carefully cutting off the pilling.
Although this method is available, it can be risky if you don’t follow the rules and have the necessary skills. Here’s how to remove pilling from a coat at home using a razor:
- Use an old and fairly dull razor (blades that are too sharp can damage delicate fabric).
- Stretch the fabric thoroughly before you start and keep it taut throughout the process.
- This method is only suitable for smooth and dense fabrics. Do not use it on cashmere, mohair or angora.
With the help of scotch tape
If the pellets are just starting to appear, regular scotch tape or sticky tape will help. The main condition is that the tape should be very sticky, so if you only have old scotch tape, it is better to buy a new, more effective one.
Stick the strip on the fabric, press it firmly with your hands, and then tear it off with a sharp movement, starting from the bottom up, and remove all the pillies. If you don’t have any sticky tape at hand, you can use a wide plaster or a roller to remove the fur.
Using a toothbrush
This method is only suitable for fabrics with a long pile. Run it over the fabric, moving from top to bottom along the fibers until all the pellets are removed. Instead of a brush, you can also use dishwashing sponges. They will also help get rid of the pellets.
Using scissors
Although this method takes time, it is effective in removing pilling and, if used carefully, the risk of damaging the material is minimal.
- Lay the fabric on a hard surface and stretch it thoroughly.
- Use a comb or toothbrush to gently straighten the pile.
- After this, slowly and carefully cut off each lump with nail scissors.
This method is most effective for removing large pills in a small area, especially if they are just starting to appear.
With the help of a special machine
A lint remover is a compact and convenient device, similar to an electric razor, that effectively and quickly removes matted lint. It is usually battery-powered – just press a button. The device is equipped with blades that are used to pass over the desired area of the fabric several times, and then simply shake out the removed lint from a special compartment.
Advantages:
- Saves time on cleaning fabric.
- Affordable price of the device.
- Versatility: suitable for different types of fabrics.
- Safe to use: the height of the blades can be adjusted independently, which reduces the risk of damaging the material even if used carelessly.
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How to prevent pilling?
To minimize pilling, follow the manufacturer’s washing, drying and ironing recommendations.
1. Reduce the frequency of washing
Do not wash jackets or coats too often, as they are not designed for this. If the fabric has stubborn stains, it is better to take the item to the dry cleaner once than to wash it several times yourself. This will save you time and nerves.
2. Proper drying
Dry your clothes outdoors, avoiding the tumble dryer and radiators. Do not wring the material after washing, just let the water drain.
3. Use special products
To wash angora, wool, mohair and cashmere products, use only special detergents intended for these fabrics.
4. Choosing the right size
When buying clothes, choose items according to size so that they do not fit too tightly. This is not only fashionable, but will also help the coat to look better longer.
5. Pay attention to bags and backpacks
Often, pilling occurs when carrying a bag. Therefore, change the shoulder on which you carry your bag, loosen the straps, or alternate different accessories. If the friction is too strong, try to minimize the contact of bags with coats.
6. Storage during warm seasons
Store your coat in a closet in a special cover to prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt.
- Variety in your wardrobe Don’t wear the same jacket every day.
